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THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY
"He who by faith receives the word is receiving the very life and character
of God. Every seed brings forth fruit after its kind. . . . Receive into the soul
by faith the incorruptible seed of the word, and it will bring forth a character
and a life after the similitude of the character and the life of
God."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 38.
"Appreciation of the Bible grows with its study."—Ibid., p. 132.
"God will make the most precious revelations to His hungering, thirsting
people. They will find that Christ is a personal Saviour. As they feed upon
His word, they find that it is spirit and life. The word destroys the natural,
earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Christ Jesus."—Th
e Desire of Ages,
page 391.
"The neglect of the word means starvation to the
soul."—Counsels on
Sabbath School Work,
page 44.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I
pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sab-
bath school lesson each day of the week.
Name
LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER
1.
John the Baptist, Forerunner of
Christ
2.
Levi-Matthew, the Publican
3.
John Mark, Missionary and Author
4.
Luke, the Beloved Physician
5.
John, the Beloved Disciple
6.
Simon Peter, the Apostle of Hope
7.
Judas, the Betrayer
8.
Stephen, the First Christian Martyr
9.
Philip the Evangelist
Io. Barnabas and Timothy
I
I. Saul of Tarsus: From Persecutor
to Apostle
12.
Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles
13.
Paul: A Prisoner and Martyr
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 254, October-December, 1958. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents
a year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring' extra postage. Published in the
U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain
View, California. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. When a
change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses.
Copyright, 1958, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
Printed in U.S.A.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
NEW TESTAMENT BIOGRAISHIES
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
"Sacred history presents many . . . noble
examples of men whose characters were
formed under divine direction, men whose
lives were a blessing to their fellow men and
who stood in the world as representatives of
God."—Education,
page 51.
"The great storehouse of truth is the word
of God,—the written word, the book of na-
ture, and the book of experience in God's
dealing with human life. Here are the treas-
ures from which Christ's workers are to
draw. In the search after truth they are to
depend upon God. . . . The mysteries con-
nected with God's dealings with men, the
depths of His wisdom and judgment as seen
in human life,—these are found to be a store-
house rich in treasure."—Christ's
Object
Lessons,
pages 125, 126.
In these crucial times, "The greatest want
of the world is the want of men—men who
will not be bought or sold, men who in their
inmost souls are true and honest, men who
do not fear to call sin by its right name, men
whose conscience is as true to duty as the
needle to the pole, men who will stand for
the right though the heavens
fall."—Educa-
tion,
page 57.
May the prayerful study of the lives, of
these Christian heroes, men who went forth
to face a hostile world and plant the stand-
ards of the early Christian church, become
a blessing and inspiration to us.
Lesson 1, for October 4, 1958
John the Baptist, Forerunner of Christ
MEMORY VERSE: "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of
the great and dreadful day of the Lord: and he shall turn the heart of the
fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I
come and smite the earth with a curse." Mal. 4:5, 6.
STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 97-108, 178-182, 214-225; "The
Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson
Help in the "Review and Herald" for September 18.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Wesnesday: Questions 12-14.
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-4.
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
❑
Monday: Questions 5-7.
❑
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
Tuesday: Questions 8-11.
❑
[ 3 ]
Lesson Outline
Introduction: John, a Representative
Reformer
I. The Forerunner in Prophecy
1.
A voice in the wilderness. Isa. 40:3-5.
2.
In the spirit of Elijah. Mal. 4:5, 6.
3.
The announcement of Gabriel. Luke
1:5-17.
4.
The message of Zacharias. Luke 1:
67-79.
II. Early Life and Ministry
5.
The wilderness school. Luke 1:80.
6.
Simple habits of life. Matt. 3:4.
7.
Remarkable success. Matt. 3:5, 6.
III. Courageous, yet Humble
8.
Empty profession denounced. Matt.
3:7-10.
9.
Only a voice. John 1:19-27; Luke
3:15-17.
10.
Highly honored. Matt. 3:13-17.
11.
"I must decrease." John 3:26-30.
IV. Close of John's Ministry
12.
Imprisonment and death. Matt. 14:
2-12.
13.
Consecrated to the cause he loved.
Matt. 11:2-6.
14.
Christ's testimonial. Matt. 11:7-14.
Key Words
1.
Baptize.
In both ancient and modern
Greek this term, derived from the word
baptizo,
or
bapto,
means to "dip," "dip
into," or "immerse," and was never used as
an equivalent of "sprinkling." In New Testa-
ment times the rite of baptism was not un-
known to the Jews.
2.
Repentance.
This is the translation of
a compound Greek word, composed of two
terms,
meta,
meaning "after," "according,"
and
noia,
meaning "mind." Therefore, in
the compound form it indicates an "after-
thought" or "change of mind."
3.
Remission.
The original word
aphesis
is interpreted as "a sending away." Accord-
ingly, when we truly repent, Christ removes
our sins from us. •
THE LESSON
Introduction: John, a Representative
Reformer
As the connecting link between the old
and new dispensations, "John the Baptist
went forth in the spirit and power of Elijah
to prepare the way of the Lord and to turn
the people to the wisdom of the just. He
was a representative of those living in these
last days to whom God has entrusted sacred
truths to present before the people to pre-
pare the way for the second appearing of
Christ."-Testimonies,
vol. 3, pp. 61, 62.
The Forerunner in Prophecy
1.
What Old Testament prophecy
foretold the coming and ministry of a
wilderness preacher? What great
work would he accomplish? Isa. 40:
3-5. Compare Matt. 3:1-3.
2.
How did the prophet Malachi
describe the mission of John the Bap-
tist? Mal. 4:5, 6.
NorE.-It was in the same locality by the
Jordan where Elijah dropped his mantle and
ascended to heaven, that John the Baptist
accepted the call of God, and went forth as
a burning torch in the fearless "spirit and
power of Elijah."
3.
As the priest Zacharias was min-
istering in the temple at Jerusalem,
what startling announcement was
made to him? What specific instruc-
tion was given concerning John's
early training and habits of life? Luke
1:5-17.
NorE.-The angel Gabriel, who was en-
trusted with prophetic messages to both
Daniel and John the revelator, was the very
messenger who communicated with Zacha-
rias. "Wonderful thought-that the angel
who stands next in honor to the Son of God
is the one chosen to open the purposes of
God to sinful men.... John was to stand as
a reformer. By his abstemious life and plain
dress he was to rebuke the excesses of his
[4
]
time. Hence the directions given to the par-
ents of John,—a lesson of temperance by an
angel from the throne of heaven."—The
De-
sire of Ages,
pages 99-101.
4.
At the birth of John what pro-
phetic forecast was given to his father
Zacharias? Luke 1:67-79.
Early Life and Ministry
5.
Where did John the Baptist spend
much of his early life? Luke 1:80.
NorE.—"In the natural order of things,
the son of Zacharias would have been edu-
cated for the priesthood. But the training of
the rabbinical schools would have unfitted
him for his work. God did not send him to
the teachers of theology to learn how to in-
terpret the Scriptures. He called him to the
desert, that he might learn of nature and
nature's God.
"It was a lonely region where he found
his home, in the midst of barren hills, wild
ravines, and rocky caves. But it was his
choice to forgo the enjoyments and luxuries
of life for the stern discipline of the wilder-
ness. Here his surroundings were favorable
to habits of simplicity and self-denial. Unin-
terrupted by the clamor of the world, he
could here study the lessons of nature, of
revelation, and of Providence. . . . John,
found in the wilderness his school and his
sanctuary."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 101,
102.
6.
What is said of the prophet's
simplicity in dress and diet? Matt. 3:4.
NorE.—"John separated himself from
friends and from the luxuries of life. The
simplicity of his dress, a garment woven of
camel's hair, was a standing rebuke to the
extravagance and display of the Jewish
priests, and of the people generally. His
diet, purely vegetable, of locusts and wild
honey, was a rebuke to the indulgence of ap-
petite and the gluttony that everywhere
prevailed."—Testimonies, vol.
3, p. 62.
7.
What phenomenal success at-
tended the ministry of this humble
evangelist? Matt. 3:5, 6.
WHERE IS THE SPOTLIGHT--ON CHRIST
OR SELF? DOES CHRIST INCREASE
?
DO I DECREASE?
NoTE.—The sand dunes by the Jordan
constituted John's church and pulpit; while
the stern, rugged eloquence of this quaint
preacher stirred the hearts of his country-
men, and multitudes flocked to hear him.
"Princes and rabbis, soldiers, publicans, and
peasants came to hear the prophet. For a
time the solemn warning from God alarmed
them. Many were brought to repentance,
and received baptism. Persons of all ranks
submitted to the requirement of the Baptist,
in order to participate in the kingdom he
announced."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 105.
Courageous, yet Humble
8.
How did John address the re-
ligious leaders who presented them-
selves for baptism? Matt. 3:7-10.
NorE.—"John declared to the teachers of
Israel that their pride, selfishness, and cruelty
showed them to be a generation of vipers, a
deadly curse to the people, rather than the
children of just and obedient Abraham. In
view of the light they had received from
God, they were even worse than the heathen,
to whom they felt so much superior. . . .
Profession was worthless. If their life and
character were not in harmony with God's
law, they were not His people."—The
Desire
of Ages,
pages 106, 107.
9.
With what explicit statement did
John declare himself to be merely the
[ 5 ]
forerunner of the Messiah? John 1:19-
Close of John's Ministry
27; Luke 3:15-17.
NOTE.—"Looking in faith to the Re-
deemer, John had risen to the height of self-
abnegation. He sought not to attract men to
himself, but to lift their thoughts higher
and still higher, until they should rest upon
the Lamb of God. He himself had been only
a
voice."—Testimonies,
vol. 8, p. 333.
10.
What rare privilege was ac-
corded to John the Baptist? Matt. 3:
13-17.
NOTE.—"When Jesus came to be baptized,
John recognized in Him a purity of charac-
ter that he had never before perceived in
any man. The very atmosphere of His pres-
ence was holy and awe-inspiring."—The
De-
sire of Ages,
page 110.
Although John felt wholly unworthy, and
shrank from granting the request of Jesus,
he nevertheless recognized the signal honor
of baptizing the Messiah.
11.
When he was informed of the
success attending Christ's ministry,
what statement revealed John's humil-
ity of spirit? John 3:26-30.
NoTE.—For a time, John's influence in
Palestine had been greater than rulers or
priests; but at length his popularity declined
and the multitudes flocked to Jesus. Yet he
did not sympathize with his natural feelings,
for his life was emptied of self.
12.
Under what circumstances did
John spend the closing months of his
life? What dark crime silenced the
voice of reproof? Matt. 14:2-12.
NoTE.—"In his mission the Baptist had
stood as a fearless reprover of iniquity, both
in high places and in low. He had dared to
face King Herod with the plain rebuke of
sin."—The Desire of Ages,
page 215.
13.
Before his death, what message
did John send to Christ, and what was
the response? Matt. 11:2-6.
NoTE.—"Understanding more clearly now
the nature of Christ's mission, he yielded
himself to God for life or for death, as
should best serve the interests of the cause
he loved." "Jesus did not interpose to de-
liver His servant. . . . But for the sake of
thousands who in after years must pass from
prison to death, John was to drink the cup
of martyrdom."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages
218, 224.
14.
What eloquent testimony did
Christ bear concerning the lifework of
John the Baptist? Matt. 11:7-14.
NoTE.—"Not Enoch, who was translated
to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a
chariot of fire, was greater or more honored
than John the Baptist. . . . Of all the gifts
that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellow-
ship with Christ in His sufferings is the most
weighty trust and the highest honor."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 225.
Lesson 2, for October 11, 1958
Levi-Matthew, the Publican
MEMORY VERSE:
"Come unto Me,
all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I
will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek
and lowly
in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is
easy, and My burden is light." Matt. 11:28-30.
STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 272-280; "The Seventh-day Adventist
Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and
Herald" for Septembr 25.
L 6 3
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Wednesday: Questions 10-13
❑
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1,
Monday: Questions 3-5.
2.
❑
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
❑
❑
Tuesday: Questions 6-9.
❑
Lesson Outline
Introduction: The Gospel Writers
I. The Call to Matthew
1.
His occupation. Matt. 9:9; Luke
7:34.
2.
His response. Luke 5:27, 28.
II. Matthew's Feast
3.
The invited guests. Luke 5:29.
4.
The Guest of honor. Mark 2:15.
5.
The criticism of the Pharisees. Matt.
9:11-13 ; Luke 5:30-32.
III. An Apostle of Christ
6.
His ordination. Matt. 10:1-4.
7.
His public ministry. Acts 1:13.
8.
His authorship. Matt. 1:1-17.
9.
Outstanding incident narrated.
Matt. 2:1-11.
IV. Instruction From the Master Teacher
10.
His parable teaching. Matt. 13:34.
11.
Notable discourses. Matt. 5 to 7;
24; 25.
12.
The great commission. Matt. 28:19,
20.
13.
The divine endowment. Matt. 28:
18; Acts 1:8.
Key Words
1.
Fulfilled.
This term is frequently re-
peated in the book of Matthew. In this
gospel there are more than sixty references
to the Old Testament and about forty quo-
tations from the Hebrew Scriptures. It is
therefore apparent that the first book of the
New Testament was written and addressed
primarily to the Jews, that they might see
and accept Christ as the fulfillment of those
ancient and divinely inspired prophecies.
2.
Kingdom.
This is the translation given
of the Greek word
basileia.
However, the
first meaning of this word is "Kingship,
royal power, royal rule." It is found in
the New Testament more than 150 times;
and one's understanding of many Scriptures
is greatly enriched if he will think of con-
version as placing one under the rulership
of Christ, under His royal power, rather than
of entering into an organization, which is
what the English word "kingdom" conveys
to many.
THE LESSON
Introduction: The Gospel Writers
"The testimony of Christian Antiquity is
clear and consistent, that the Four Gospels
were delivered by the Holy Spirit to the
Church of Christ through the instrumental-
ity of those persons whose names they bear;
. . . and that these Four Gospels were
identical in name, in form, and in matter
with those received by ourselves at the
present day."-Butler,
The Bible-Work,
The New Testament, vol. 1, p. 8.
The writers were so absorbed in their
theme that self was forgotten. They were
presenting the matchless life story of that
divinely wonderful personality, Jesus Christ.
In their writings there is revealed a four-
fold diversity of subject matter and details,
yet no contradictions. While there are
differences in the letter, there is perfect unity
of spirit, each penman contributing to a nar-
rative of marvelous symmetry and com-
pleteness.
Nothing is known of the parentage and
early life of Matthew, also called Levi, ex-
cept that he was the son of Alphaeus, and
apparently a brother of one of the disciples
named James. See Mark 2:14; Matt. 10:3.
The Call to Matthew
.
1. In what occupation was Matthew
engaged, and how was this service re-
[ 7 ]
garded by the Jews? Matt. 9:9; Luke
7:34.
NoTE.—"Of the Roman officials in Pales-
tine, none were more hated than the publi-
cans [tax collectors]. . . The taxgatherers
were not merely the instruments of Roman
oppression; they were extortioners on their
own account, enriching themselves at the
expense of the people. A Jew who accepted
this office at the hands of the Romans was
looked upon as betraying the honor of his
nation. He was despised as an apostate, and
was classed with the vilest of society."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 272.
2.
How did Matthew, the tax col-
lector, respond to Christ's call? Luke
5:27, 28.
NOTE.—"Sitting at his toll booth one day
[evidently in or near Capernaum], the pub-
lican saw Jesus approaching. Great was his
astonishment to hear the words addressed
to himself, 'Follow Me.'
"Matthew 'left all, rose up, and followed
Him.' There was no hesitation, no question-
ing, no thought of the lucrative business to
be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It
was enough for him that he was to be with
Jesus, that he might listen to His words,
and unite with Him in His work. . . . To
Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and
Peter in their poverty, the same test was
brought; the same consecration was made
by each."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 273.
Matthew's Feast
3.
Upon receiving the invitation to
join the group of Christ's disciples,
what did Matthew do for his friends
and associates? Luke 5:29.
NorE.—"In the joy of his new disciple-
ship, Matthew longed to bring his former
associates to Jesus. Accordingly he made a
feast at his own house, and called together
his relatives and friends. Not only were
publicans included, but many others who
were of doubtful reputation, and were pro-
scribed by their more scrupulous neighbors."
—The Desire of Ages,
pages 273, 274.
WHEN
JESUS
CALLS, DO WE, LIKE MATTHEW,
LEAVE ALL TO FOLLOW THE MASTER?
4.
Who attended the feast as the
Guest of honor? Mark 2:15.
NoTE.—"The entertainment was given in
honor of Jesus, and He did not hesitate to
accept the courtesy. He well knew that this
would give offense to the Pharisaic party,
and would also compromise Him in the eyes
of the people. But no question of policy
could influence His movements. With Him
external distinctions weighed nothing. That
which appealed to His heart was a soul
thirsting for the water of life.
"Jesus sat as an honored guest at the
table of the publicans, by His sympathy and
social kindliness showing that He recognized
the dignity of humanity."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 274.
5.
How did Christ reply to the criti-
cisms of the scribes and Pharisees?
Matt. 9:11-13; Luke 5:30-32.
NOTE.—"Although the Pharisees thought
so highly of themselves, they were really in
a worse condition than the ones they
despised."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 275.
An Apostle of Christ
6.
When the disciples were or-
dained as apostles, who from among
the publicans received a divine com-
mission? Matt. 10:1-4.
[ 8 ]
NoTE.—"For a religious teacher to choose
a publican as one of his immediate attend-
ants was an offense against the religious,
social, and national customs."—The
Desire
of Ages,
page 273.
To witness a despised outcast of society
transformed into an honored evangelist, and
numbered with the chosen Twelve, is a sig-
nificant example of gospel uplift. "He raises
up the poor from the dust; He lifts the
needy from the ash heap, to make them sit
with princes and inherit a seat of honor."
1 Sam. 2:8, R.S.V.
7.
When is the apostle Matthew last
mentioned in the New Testament nar-
rative? Acts 1:13.
8.
As an introduction to the book
that bears his name, what direct line
of ancestry does Matthew present?
Matt. 1:1-17.
NOTE.—The apparent purpose of this book
is to reveal Jesus of Nazareth as the kingly
Messiah of Old Testament prophecy. In
complete accord with these predictions,
Christ was born in the royal line of Judah.
It is also most interesting to observe
that the Old Testament closes with a retro-
spective mention of Moses and a forward
look to the coming of "Elijah the prophet,"
or John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ.
Then after four centuries of prophetic
silence, Matthew begins with a backward
reference to Abraham and David, who re-
joiced in the certainty of a coming Redeemer.
The book of Matthew provides the sequel
to the utterances of the ancient prophets,
declaring that this Jesus is the long-looked-
for Messiah, the hope of Israel.
9.
What interesting incidents are
related by Matthew in connection with
the birth of Jesus? Matt. 2:1-11.
NoTE.—Matthew is also the only Gospel
writer who speaks of the flight into Egypt
(Matt. 2:13, 14), the return to Nazareth
(Matt. 2:19-23), Peter walking on the water
(Matt. 14:28-31), the dream of Pilate's
wife (Matt. 27:19), the appearance of
resurrected saints (Matt. 27:52), the brib-
ing of the soldier guards (Matt. 28:12-15.)
Instruction from the Master Teacher
10.
How did Matthew emphasize
Christ's favorite method of teaching?
Matt. 13:34.
NoTE.—The following parables are re-
corded only by Matthew: The tares (Matt.
13:24-30), the hidden treasure (Matt. 13:
44), the goodly pearl (Matt. 13:45, 46), the
drawnet (Matt. 13:47, 48), the unmerciful
servant (Matt. 18:23-35), the laborers in
the vineyard (Matt. 20:1-16), the two sons
(Matt. 21:28-32), the marriage of the king's
son (Matt. 22:1-14), the ten virgins (Matt.
25:1-13), the talents (Matt. 25:14-30), the
sheep and the goats (Matt. 25:31-46).
11.
What two discourses are given
by Matthew in greater detail and com-
pleteness than by other Gospel
writers? Matt. 5 to 7; 24; 25.
12.
With what vital and far-reach-
ing commission to the church does the
Gospel of Matthew close? Matt. 28:
19, 20.
NOTE.—"The Saviour's commission to the
disciples included all the believers. It in-
cludes all believers in Christ to the end of
time. . . . All who receive the life of Christ
are ordained to work for the salvation of
their fellow men. For this work the church
was established, and all who take upon
themselves its sacred vows are thereby
pledged to be co-workers with Christ."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 822.
13.
For the accomplishment of this
sacred trust, what endowment is pro-
vided? Matt. 28:18; Acts 1:8.
NoTE.—"All who consecrate soul, body,
and spirit to God will be constantly receiv-
ing a new endowment of physical and men-
tal power. The inexhaustible supplies of
heaven are at their command.... The grace
of God enlarges and multiplies their faculties,
and every perfection of the divine nature
comes to their assistance in the work of sav-
ing souls."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 827.
[
9]
Lesson 3, for October 18, 1958
John Mark, Missionary and Author
MEMORY VERSE:
"And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible,
but not with God: for with God all things are possible." Mark 10:27.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 166-170; "The Seventh-day Ad-
ventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and
Herald" for October 2.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Study Helps.
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-4.
❑
Wednesday: Questions 10-12.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
Tuesday: Questions 8, 9; read from
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
0
Lesson Outline
Introduction: The Writer of the Second
Gospel
I. Missionary Experiences
1.
John Mark's home environment.
Acts 12:12.
2.
A volunteer for service. Acts 12:25.
3.
An evangelistic helper. Acts 13:5.
4.
Overcome by difficulties. Acts 13:
13.
II. Return to the Gospel Ministry
5.
A heated argument. Acts 15:36-39.
6.
An esteemed worker. 2 Tim. 4:11.
7.
Peter's testimony. 1 Peter 5:13.
III. Valued Contributions to the Gospel
Narrative
8. The God of the impossible. Mark
9:23.
9.
Prevailing faith. Mark 11:22.
10.
A precise statement of facts. Mark
13:24.
11.
The great commission tersely stated.
Mark 16:15.
12.
The response of the early church.
Mark 16:20.
Key Word
Straightway.
The Gospel of Mark abounds
in graphic expressions. Events appear to
follow events in rapid succession, and the
usual word to preface a new experience, or
incident, is "straightway," which word
occurs nineteen times in this book. The
terms "immediately" and "forthwith" also
appear frequently.
THE LESSON
Introduction: The Writer of the
Second Gospel
His Hebrew name was John, with Mark,
or Marcus, as the Latin surname. His
mother, Mary, was presumably a woman
of considerable wealth, and her home in
Jerusalem appears as a rendezvous of the
early Christian community in that city.
Acts 12:12. When divinely liberated from
prison, Peter went directly to this hospitable
retreat, where the church people were pray-
ing for his release. Many years later both
Peter and Mark were in the city of Rome,
and it was believed by many of the early
Christian writers that the aged apostle
collaborated with Mark in the preparation
of the second Gospel.
[ 10 ]
The contents of the book of Mark indi-
cate that it was written primarily for the
Romans and other Gentiles. It omits all
reference to the Jewish law; it gives no
genealogy of Christ which would reveal His
Hebrew lineage; it tells nothing concerning
His birth, and makes but slight reference to
the many prophecies that were fulfilled in
His life, death, and resurrection. It also
explains various words that would not be
easily understood by a Gentile reader. This
book, wholly removed from Jewish symbol-
ism, presents a divine Christ, a Worker of
mighty miracles, a Conqueror of death, and
the Organizer of a universal crusade for the
spiritual conquest of the world.
The book of Mark is the shortest of the
four Gospels. The style is vivid and pictur-
esque. This little volume opens with the
statement that Jesus Christ is the Son of
God, and portrays His life as crowded with
benevolent and supernatural deeds which
eloquently testify to His divinity.
Missionary Experiences
1.
What do we know of the home
environment of John Mark? Acts
12:12.
2.
With whom did John Mark first
begin to labor for Christ? Acts 12:25.
NOTE.—The Revised Standard Version
says: "And they had John to assist them."
4.
As the difficulties and perils of
the missionary journey increased, what
did John Mark do? Acts 13:13.
NOTE.—"It was here that Mark, over-
whelmed with fear and discouragement,
wavered for a time in his purpose to give
himself wholeheartedly to the Lord's work.
Unused to hardships, he was disheartened
by the perils and privations of the way. He
had labored with success under favor-
able circumstances; but now, amidst the
opposition and perils that so often beset the
pioneer worker, he failed to endure hardness
as a good soldier of the cross. He had yet
to learn to face danger and persecution and
adversity with a brave heart. As the apostles
advanced, and still greater difficulties were
apprehended, Mark was intimidated, and
losing all courage, refused to go farther, and
returned to Jerusalem."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
pages 169, 170.
Return to the Gospel Ministry
5.
When Mark again volunteered
for the ministry, what incident oc-
curred? Acts 15:36-39.
NOTE.—"Barnabas himself was 'of the
country of Cyprus;' and now he and Paul,
accompanied by John Mark, a kinsman of
Barnabas, visited this island field.
"Mark's mother was a convert to the
Christian religion, and her home at Jeru-
salem was an asylum for the disciples. There
they were always sure of a welcome and a
season of rest. It was during one of these
visits of the apostles to his mother's home,
that Mark proposed to Paul and Barnabas
that he should accompany them on their
missionary tour. He felt the favor of God
in his heart, and longed to devote himself
entirely to the work of the gospel ministry."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 166, 167.
3. In what capacity did Mark ac-
company Paul and Barnabas on their
first missionary tour? Acts 13:5.
NorE.—"Barnabas was ready to go with
Paul, but wished to take with them Mark,
who had again decided to devote himself to
the ministry. To this Paul objected. He
`thought not good to take . . . with them'
one who during their first missionary jour-
ney had left them in a time of need. He was
not inclined to excuse Mark's weakness in
deserting the work for the safety and com-
forts of home. He urged that one with so
little stamina was unfitted for a work re-
quiring patience, self-denial, bravery, devo-
tion, faith, and a willingness to sacrifice, if
need be, even life itself."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
page 202.
6. While Paul was a prisoner in
Rome, what did he say about Mark?
2 Tim. 4:11; Col. 4:10; Philemon 24.
E1
•
RIB COUCH ipit
'THERE IS NOTHING THAT THE 'WORLD NEEDS
50 MUCH AS THE MANIFESTATION THROUGH
HUMANITY OF THE SAVIOURS LOVE:-
90.-5
NOTE.—"Since
the earlier years of his pro-
fession of faith, Mark's Christian experience
had deepened. As he had studied more
closely the life and death of Christ, he had
obtained clearer views of the Saviour's mis-
sion, its toils and conflicts. Reading in the
scars in Christ's hands and feet the marks
of His service for humanity, and the length
to which self-abnegation leads to save the
lost and perishing, Mark had become will-
ing to follow the Master in the path of self-
sacrifice. Now, sharing the lot of Paul the
prisoner, he understood better than ever be-
fore that it is infinite gain to win Christ,
infinite loss to win the world and lose the
soul for whose redemption the blood of
Christ was shed. In the face of severe trial
and adversity, Mark continued steadfast, a
wise and beloved helper of the apostle."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 455.
7.
What words of Peter reveal his
love and esteem for Mark? 1 Peter
5:13.
NoTE.—The city of Rome was the spiritual
"Babylon" to which Peter doubtless referred,
for in that metropolis Peter closed his minis-
try. See
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 537.
There also Mark is believed to have penned
the Gospel that bears his name.
Valued Contributions to the
Gospel Narrative
8.
What notable truth does Mark
seek to impress upon his readers? Mark
9:23; 10:27.
9.
What brief statement of Christ's
is recorded to inspire supreme confi-
dence in divine wisdom and power?
Mark 11:22.
NoTE.—"Through faith God's children
have 'subdued kingdoms, wrought righteous-
ness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths
of lions, quenched the violence of fire, es-
caped the edge of the sword, out of weak-
ness were made strong, waxed valiant in
fight, turned to flight the armies of the
aliens.' And through faith we today are to
reach the heights of God's purpose for us.
`If thou canst believe, all things are possible
to him that believeth.' . . . With the per-
servering faith of Jacob, with the unyielding
persistence of Elijah, we may present our
petitions to the Father, claiming all that He
has promised. The honor of His throne is
staked for the fulfillment of His word."—
Prophets and Kings,
pages 157, 158.
10.
What fact in our Lord's great
prophecy, not mentioned by other
Gospel writers, is clearly • stated by
this author? Mark 13:24.
NorE.—"Twenty-five years later [than
the tribulation] appeared the next sign
mentioned in the prophecy,—the darkening
of the sun and moon."—The
Great Contro-
versy,
page 306. These signs occurred in a
short period of time referred to in the two
phrases "in those days," and "after that
tribulation," or between the years 1773 and
1798.
11.
In what abbreviated form does
Mark state the Master's great commis-
sion? Mark 16:15.
12.
Following Christ's ascension,
how did the believers respond to this
command? Mark 16:20.
NOTE.—"As Christ sent forth His disciples,
so today He sends forth the members of His
[121
church. . . . Christ has given to the church
a sacred charge. Every member should be a
channel through which God can communi-
cate to the world the treasures of His grace,
the unsearchable riches of Christ. There is
nothing that the Saviour desires so much as
agents who will represent to the world His
Spirit and His character. There is nothing
that the world needs so much as the mani-
festation through humanity of the Saviour's
love. All heaven is waiting for men and wo-
men through whom God can reveal the
power of Christianity."-The
Acts of the
Apostles,
pages 599, 600.
Lesson 4, for October 25, 1958
Luke, the Beloved Physician
MEMORY VERSE:
"The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me
to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to
set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the
Lord." Luke 4:18, 19.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture
references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" for October 9.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check
Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Wednesday: Questions 10-13.
❑
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1,
Monday: Questions 3-6.
2.
❑
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
❑
❑
Tuesday: Questions 7-9.
❑
Lesson Outline
Introduction: An All-Sufficient Saviour
I. Luke's Writings Dedicated
1.
Foreword to the Gospel of Luke.
Luke 1:1-4.
2.
Foreword to the Acts of the Apostles.
Acts 1:1-3.
II. Portrayal of the Divine-Human Christ
3.
The supernatural birth. Luke 1:26-
37; 2:8-14.
4.
A Son of the Highest. Luke 3:38.
5.
A Friend of the friendless. Luke 7:
37, 38.
6.
The prayer life of Jesus. Luke 6:12.
Ill. Characteristic Features of Luke's
Gospel
7.
Honoring womanhood. Luke 1:5,
27; 2:36; 8:2, 3.
8.
Characteristic introduction to para-
bles. Luke 5:36; 6:39.
9.
The world-wile commission. Luke
24:47, 48; Acts 1:8.
IV. A Fellow Worker With Paul
10.
During the second missionary tour.
Acts 16:9, 10.
11.
During the third and fourth jour-
neys. Acts 20: 5, 6; 21:17, 18; 27:
1; 28:12-14.
12.
Luke mentioned in Paul's writings.
Col. 4:14; Philemon 24; 2 Tim.
4:11.
13.
Partnership in a Roman dungeon.
2 Tim. 4:10, 11, first part.
Key Thoughts
Anointed for service.
Before entering
upon their sacred duties, the Levitical priests
were solemnly anointed. At the time of
His baptism, Christ was anointed for His
[ 13 ]
great ministry of love. The Holy Spirit at
Pentecost anointed the early apostles for
their mighty task. In like manner "all who
consecrate soul, body, and spirit to God will
be constantly receiving a new endowment
of physical and mental power"—the heav-
enly anointing of the Son of man. See
The
Desire of Ages,
page 827. In a pre-eminent
sense, Luke presents Christ as the Son of
man who came to seek and to save all that
was lost through transgression. "In taking
our nature, the Saviour has bound Himself
to humanity by a tie that is never to be
broken;" and throughout the eternal ages
He will ever be one with the race that He
has redeemed. See
Ibid.,
p. 25.
THE LESSON
Introduction: An All-Sufficient
Saviour
Luke appears as the author of the third
Gospel and also of the Acts of the Apostles.
The first of these books was evidently writ-
ten to commend Jesus to the Gentile world
as the divine-human Saviour of mankind.
"Four things made Luke the proper instru-
ment for this work: that he was of Greek
origin; that Antioch was doubtless the place
of his birth and residence—the city in which
the great missionary impulse of that age
was given, and in which the sympathy of
Christianity with all the perishing world
reached its greatest breadth and depth; that
he was a physician by profession; and that
he was the disciple and companion of Paul,
the apostle to the Gentile world. It is the
unvarying testimony of the early church
that Luke's Gospel originated in his com-
panionship and work with Paul, and that it
was molded and inspired by that great
apostle, who combined the Jewish soul with
the culture of the Gregk, the world-citizen-
ship of the Roman, and the undying
devotion of the chief of sinners saved by
grace. Such a nature, residence, culture,
companionship, joined with inspiration,
fitted Luke to trace the life of Jesus, 'in its
wide comprehensiveness, as the Gospel of
the nations, full of mercy and hope, assured
to a whole world by the love of a suffering
Saviour.'"—Butler,
The Bible-Work,,
The
New Testament, vol. 1, p. 12.
Luke's Writings Dedicated
1. To whom was the book of Luke
addressed? What was the author's
purpose in writing it? Luke 1:1-4.
NoTE.—The name Theophilus is inter-
preted
as friend of God.
This man was
probably a Greek holding a position of rank,
but no hint is given concerning the place of
his residence.
Prior to Luke's writing, the books of
Matthew and Mark had been prepared, but
aside from these it is evident that "many"
biographies of Christ's life had been written,
some of which were considered unsatisfac-
tory. Luke was a gifted, cultured author,
and his writings reveal "a rhythm of con-
struction, a range of vocabulary," and a re-
fined style of expression that would appeal
to the best educated classes throughout the
Greek-speaking world. His exactness of
statement and employment of technical
medical terms and phrases also contribute
to the literary excellence of his writings.
2.
How is the continuity of the gos-
pel narrative expressed in the intro-
duction to the book of Acts? Acts 1:
1-3.
Portrayal of the Divine-Human
Christ
3.
In the Gospel of Luke what in-
cidents are given to emphasize the su-
pernatural nature of Christ's birth?
Luke 1:26-37; 2:8-14.
4.
In the genealogy given by this
penman, to whom is the ancestry of
Christ traced? Luke 3:38. Compare
Matt. 1:1, 2.
NoTE.—Luke traces the genealogy of
Christ through Mary (Luke 3:23), although
Mary's name is not mentioned. It was cus-
tomary to put the husband's name in place
of the wife's. Matthew traces Christ's line-
( 14 ]
-(1 .1
CHRISTIAN FRIENDSHIP IS TESTED IN
SORROW, 1.055, AND IGNOMINY. PAUL KNEW
THIS FRIENDSHIP IN Dr. LuKES FAITHFULNESS.
age through Joseph. However, both Mary
and Joseph were descended from David.
5.
How does Luke disclose our
Lord's sympathetic attitude toward
the poor, the lowly, and the outcast?
Luke 7:37, 38; 15:1; 17:12-14.
Nora.—In His earthly mission, the Son
of God became the Son of man, and the
unwearied Servant of humanity.
6.
How does this author stress the
devotional nature of Christ's life and
ministry? Luke 6:12.
NOTE.—Luke presents three parables on
prayer not found in the other gospels: the
friend at midnight (Luke 11:5-8), the un-
just judge (Luke 18:1-8), and the Pharisee
and the publican (Luke 18:9-14).
He records for us eight occasions when
the Master prayed: At His baptism (Luke
3:21), in the wilderness (Luke 5:16), be-
fore choosing His disciples (Luke 6:12), at
the transfiguration (Luke 9:29), before pre-
senting the Lord's Prayer (Luke 11:1), for
Peter (Luke 22:32), in the Garden of
Gethsemane (Luke 22:44), and on the cross
(Luke 23:46).
Characteristic Features of Luke's
Gospel
7.
Who are some of the women
mentioned in Luke's narrative? Luke
1:5, 27; 2:36; 8:2, 3; 10:38.
NoTE.—Christ honored and dignified true
womanhood, and Luke memorialized these
instances for future generations.
8.
What characteristic expression
was used by Luke in introducing the
parables of Jesus? Luke 5:36; 6:39.
NOTE.—Aside from the three parables on
prayer mentioned under question 6, Luke
is the only gospel writer to record the
parables of the two debtors, the barren fig
tree, the good Samaritan, the great supper,
the lost piece of silver, the pounds, the
prodigal son, the foolish rich man, the rich
man and Lazarus, the unjust steward, the
unprofitable servant, the wedding feast, and
the wise steward.
9.
In what expressive language does
Luke record his Master's world-wide
commission? Luke 24:47, 48; Acts 1:8.
A Fellow Worker With Paul
10.
At what time in the ministry of
Paul did Luke become one of his co-
laborers? Acts 16:9, 10.
NoTE.—The use of the plural pronoun
"we" indicates that Luke was a member of
Paul's company on this, the apostle's second
missionary journey. "Luke, the writer of
the Gospel that bears his name, was a medi-
cal missionary. In the Scriptures he is called
`the beloved physician.' Colossians 4:14.
The apostle Paul heard of his skill as a
physician, and sought him out as one to
whom the Lord had entrusted a special
work. He secured his co-operation, and for
some time Luke accompanied him in his
travels from place to place. After a time,
Paul left Luke at Philippi, in Macedonia.
Here he continued to labor for several years,
both as a physician and as a teacher of the
gospel. In his work as a physician he minis-
( 15
tered to the sick and then prayed for the
healing power of God to rest upon the af-
flicted ones. Thus the way was opened for
the gospel message. Luke's success as a
physician gained for him many opportunities
for preaching Christ among the heathen."
—The Ministry of Healing,
pages 140, 141.
11.
During what later journeys did
Luke accompany Paul? Acts 20:5, 6;
21:17, 18; 27:1; 28:12-14.
NoTE.—Some six years later, the pronoun
"we" again identifies Luke as a traveling
companion of Paul on the homeward cruise
of his third mission tour. The beloved phy-
sician also accompanied Paul, the prisoner,
on his notable voyage from Caesarea to
Rome.
12.
In the epistles of Paul, what
references are made to the apostle's
fellowship with Luke? Col. 4:14; Phi-
lemon 24.
NOTE.—"Luke" and "Lucas" are under-
stood to be different forms of the same name,
designating the same individual.
13.
During Paul's final imprison-
ment, what contrasting experiences
both saddened and cheered the veteran
apostle? 2 Tim. 4:10, 11, first part.
NOTE.—"Demas, dismayed by the thick-
ening clouds of difficulty and danger, for-
sook the persecuted apostle. . . . Writing to
Timothy of this experience, Paul said, 'Only
Luke is with me.' 2 Timothy 4:11. Never
had the apostle needed the ministrations of
his brethren as now, enfeebled as he was by
age, toil, and infirmities, and confined in
the damp, dark vaults of a Roman prison.
The services of Luke, the beloved disciple
and faithful friend, were a great comfort to
Paul, and enabled him to communicate with
his brethren and the world without."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 490.
Observe the striking contrast between De-
mas and Luke. One loved this present world
and forsook the service of Christ; the other
surrendered the attractive worldly prospects
of his profession to engage in the sacred
work of the gospel. What faith and devo-
tion! And what a privilege to become the
last remaining human solace to the great
apostle to 'the Gentiles!
Like Demas ? or like Luke? What a chal-
le lging alternative! Which shall it be for
us individually?
Lesson 5, for November 1, 1958
John, the Beloved Disciple
MEMORY VERSE: "I
in them,
and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in
one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved
them, as Thou hast loved Me." John 17:23.
STUDY HELPS: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 539-577; "The Seventh-day Ad-
ventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and
Herald" for October 9.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Study Helps.
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-4.
❑
Wednesday: Questions 10-13.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
Tuesday: Questions 8, 9; read part of
Friday: Review entire lesson.
[ 16 ]
Lesson Outline
Introduction: The Character of John
I. A Youthful Disciple
1.
In search of Jesus. John 1:35-40.
2.
Responding to the call. Matt. 4:21,
22.
3.
Discipline required. Luke 9:49-56.
4.
The divine standard of greatness.
Matt. 20:20-28.
II. From Disciple to Apostle
5.
The miracle transformation. 2 Cor.
3:18.
6.
A sacred trust. John 19:25-27.
7.
An efficient, consecrated preacher.
Acts 3:1-8 ; 4:3, 13, 19.
III. John's Inspired Legacy to the Church
8.
His purpose in writing the fourth
Gospel. John 20:31.
9.
Unity of the Godhead. John 14:8-
11, 16, 17; 17:13-15.
IV. Other Inspired Writings
10.
The three epistles of John. 1 John
4:1; 2 John 7, 10; 3 John 9, 11.
11.
Christ visits His exiled apostle.
Rev. 1:9, 10, 12-17.
12.
John commissioned to write. Rev.
1:11, 19.
13.
The great invitation. Rev. 22:17.
Key Thoughts
John's legacy to the church.
There are
sound reasons for believing that John wrote
the Gospel that bears his, name, the three
Epistles, and the book of Revelation near
the close of the first century. He was the
youngest of the chosen Twelve, and from his
most intimate communion with Jesus he was
enabled to speak of those secret springs of
life and faith which satisfy the longings of
the human soul.
John's Gospel is the only one that records
the interview with Nicodemus (John 3:1-
21), the conversation with the Samaritan
woman (John 4:5-26), the sermon on the
Bread of life (John 6:26-63), the sermon at
the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:14-39),
the series of personal talks to the disciples
(John 14 to 17), and the following six no-
table miracles: The water changed into wine
(John 2:1-11), healing of the nobleman's
son (John 4:46-54), healing of the man at
the pool (John 5:1-9), healing of the man
born blind (John 9:1-7), the raising of
Lazarus (John 11:1-46), the second draft
of fishes (John 21:1-11).
THE LESSON
Introduction: The Character of John
"The apostle John was distinguished above
his brethren as 'the disciple whom Jesus
loved.' While not in the slightest degree
cowardly, weak, or vacillating in character,
he possessed an amiable disposition, and a
warm, loving heart. He seems to have en-
joyed, in a pre-eminent sense, the friendship
of Christ, and he received many tokens of
the Saviour's confidence and love. He was
one of the three permitted to witness Christ's
glory upon the mount of transfiguration and
His agony in Gethsemane; and to the care
of John our Lord confided His mother in
those last hours of anguish upon the cross.
"The Saviour's affection for the beloved
disciple was returned with all the strength
of ardent devotion. John clung to Christ as
the vine clings to the stately pillar. For his
Master's sake he braved the dangers of the
judgment hall, and lingered about the cross;
and at the tidings that Christ had risen, he
hastened to the sepulcher, in his zeal out-
stripping even the impetuous Peter.
"John's love for his Master was not a
mere human friendship; but it was the love
of a repentant sinner, who felt that he had
been redeemed by the precious blood of
Christ. He esteemed it the highest honor to
work and suffer in the service of his Lord."
—The Sanctified Life,
page 53, 1956 ed.
A Youthful Disciple
1. Who were the first individuals
to become followers of Jesus? John
1:35-40.
NOTE
.—"Leaving John [the Baptist], they
went to seek Jesus. One of the two was An-
drew, the brother of Simon; the other was
John the evangelist. These were Christ's
first disciples. Moved by an irresistible im-
[ 17
JOHN ,THE FISHERMAN
JOH
N TH
e
Arse°
SON OF THUNDER, SAD-
PROPHET ON PATMO$
TEMPERED , CRITICAL, PROUD. LOVE. HUMILITY. WALKING
WITH JESUS.
.JOHN ,THE UNLOVELY IN CHARACTER, WAS
TRANSFORMED SY THE SPIRIT OF
GOD.
<10150- b
pulse, they followed Jesus,—anxious to speak
with Him, yet awed and silent, lost in the
overwhelming significance of the thought,
`Is this the Messiah ?'
"Jesus knew that the disciples were fol-
lowing Him. They were the first fruits of
His ministry, and there was joy in the heart
of the divine Teacher."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 138.
2.
In what occupation was the
youthful John engaged? When chosen
to become a disciple of Christ, what
significant name did the Master give
him? Matt. 4:21, 22; Mark 3:17.
NOTE.—"All
the disciples had serious faults
when Jesus called them to His service. Even
John, who came into closest association with
the meek and lowly One, was not himself
naturally meek and yielding. He and his
brother were called 'the sons of thunder.'
While they were with Jesus, any slight
shown to Him aroused their indignation and
combativeness. Evil temper, revenge, the
spirit of criticism, were all in the beloved
disciple. He was proud, and ambitious to
be first in the kingdom of God."—The
De-
sire of Ages,
page 295.
3.
What experiences revealed cer-
tain unlovely traits in John's charac-
ter? What rebuke was given? Luke
9:49-56.
NOTE.—"John
did not naturally possess
the loveliness of character that his later ex-
perience revealed. By nature he had serious
defects. He was not only proud, self-as-
sertive, and ambitious for honor, but im-
petuous, and resentful under injury."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 540.
4.
At another time when John and
his brother sought high positions in
the coming kingdom, what was
Christ's reply? What is the divine
standard of true greatness? Matt. 20:
20-28.
Nora.—"The one who stands nearest to
Christ will be he who on earth has drunk
most deeply of the spirit of His self-sacrific-
ing love, . . . love that moves the disciple,
as it moved our Lord, to give all, to live
and labor and sacrifice, even unto death,
for the saving of humanity."—The
Desire
of Ages,
page 549.
From Disciple to Apostle
5.
As day by day John beheld the
patience, kindness, and beauty of
Christ's life, what mighty transforma-
tion was wrought? 2 Cor. 3:18; 1 John
3:1, 2.
NOTE.—"During
the years of his close
association with Christ, he [John] was
often warned and cautioned by the Saviour;
and these reproofs he accepted. As the char-
acter of the Divine One was manifested to
him, John saw his own deficiences, and was
humbled by the revelation. Day by day, in
contrast with his own violent spirit, he be-
held the tenderness and forbearance of Jesus,
and heard His lessons of humility and pa-
tience. Day by day his heart was drawn out
to Christ, until he lost sight of self in love
for his master."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 557.
Having assimilated so much of the loveli-
ness of Jesus, John was qualified by the
Holy Spirit to present more of the love of
God than does any other Bible writer. "The
beauty of holiness which had transformed
him shone with a Christlike radiance from
his countenance. In adoration and love he
[ 18 ]
beheld the Saviour until likeness to Christ
and fellowship with Him became his one
desire, and in his character was reflected the
character of his Master."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
page 545.
6.
At the time of Christ's crucifix-
ion, what sacred trust was committed
to John? John 19:25-27.
NorE.—"John understood Christ's words,
and accepted the trust. He at once took Mary
to his home, and from that hour cared for
her tenderly. . . . And in receiving her as
a sacred trust, John was receiving a great
blessing. She was a constant reminder of
his beloved Master."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 752.
7.
After Christ's ascension and the
Pentecostal outpouring, what experi-
ences did the young apostle meet?
Acts 3:1-8; 4:3, 13, 19; 5:17-20, 26, 40.
NOTE.—"He [John] was a powerful
preacher, fervent, and deeply in earnest. In
beautiful language and with a musical voice
he told of the words and works of Christ."
"As the years went by and the number of
believers grew, John labored with increasing
fidelity and earnestness for his brethren."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 546, 553.
John's Inspired Legacy to the
Church
8.
What testimony did John bear
concerning his purpose in writing the
gospel story? John 20:31.
NoTE.—It is generally believed that John
wrote his Gospel in or near Ephesus, where
he is said to have labored during the later
years of his life. The writer evidently as-
sumes that the notable facts of Christ's life
as related by Matthew, Mark, and Luke
are well known. He therefore especially por-
trays the inner, spiritual life of the Son of
God.
9.
How does John record Christ's
teaching of the unity of the Godhead?
John 14:8-11, 16, 17; 17:13-15.
NoTE.—John's Gospel reveals the divinity
and pre-existence of Christ (John 1:1-14;
8:58; 17:5), it emphasizes the Fatherhood
of God (John 4:23; 5:21, etc.), outlines the
work of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-18,
26; 16:7-13), presents Jesus as the divine
Teacher (John 3:2), the divine Soul Win-
ner (John 4:9, 10), the Great Physician
(John 5:8, 9), the Bread of Life (John 6:
48), the Water of Life (John 4:13, 14), the
Light of the world (John 8:12), the Good
Shepherd (John 10:11), the resurrection and
the life (John 11:25), the Great Intercessor
(John 17:1-26), and the Victor over death
(John 20:14; compare Rev. 1:18).
Other Inspired Writings
10.
What conditions in the church
led to John's writing the three epistles
that bear his name? 1 John 4:1; 2 John
7, 10; 3 John 9, 11.
NoTE.—"The epistles of John breathe the
spirit of love. It seems as if he wrote with
a pen dipped in love. But when he came in
contact with those who were breaking the
law of God, yet claiming that they were liv-
ing without sin, he did not hesitate to warn
them of their fearful deception."—The
Acts
of the Apostles,
page 554.
11.
One Sabbath day while John
was in exile on rugged Patmos, what
glorious experience came to him? Rev.
1:9, 10, 12-17.
NorE.—The same Jesus with whom he
had been so intimately associated more than
a half century before, now comes to visit
the aged and tried apostle. During the reign
of Emperor Domitian, John had been sum-
moned to Rome, tried, and "cast into a
caldron of boiling oil; but the Lord pre-
served the life of His faithful servant"—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 570. A little
later he was banished to the lonely Isle of
Patmos.
12.
As John beheld in vision the
future struggles and victories of the
church, what was he instructed to do?
Rev. 1:11, 19.
[ 19 ]
NOTE.
-"To the servant of God this
gloomy abode became the gate of heaven.
. .. When his voice could no longer testify
to the One whom he loved and served, the
messages given him on that barren coast
were to go forth as a lamp that burneth."-
The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 570, 571.
From that bleak Roman prison camp there
issued that "panorama of glory," that
"crown jewel of prophecy" known as the
book of Revelation.
13. At the close of these heavenly
visions, what heart-warming appeal is
extended to all who will listen? Rev.
22:17.
Lesson 6, for November 8, 1958
Simon Peter, the Apostle of Hope
MEMORY VERSE: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which
according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope
by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." 1 Peter 1:3.
STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 810-817; "The Acts of the Apostles,"
pages 514-538; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture
references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" for October 23.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-4.
❑
Monday: Questions 5-8.
❑
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
❑
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 12-15.
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
❑
Friday: Review entire lesson.
❑
Lesson Outline
Introduction: An Undershepherd
I. Early Discipleship
1.
Peter's first contact with Jesus. John
1:40-42.:
2.
Forsaking all to follow the Master.
Luke 5:1-11.
3.
Jesus to the rescue. Matt. 14:22-33.
4.
Peter's notable confession. Matt. 16:
13-18.
II. A Rolling Stone
5.
The self-confident disciple. Mark
14:27-31; John 18:10, 11.
6.
Denying his Lord. Luke 22:54-62.
7:
Those cheering words, "and Peter."
•
Mark 16:6, 7.
-
. -
-
8. 'Forgiven and recommissioned. John
21:1-17.
III. The Transformed Peter
9.
His sermon at Pentecost. Acts 2:
14-16, 37-41.
10.
Persecuted, yet undaunted. Acts 4:
19, 20; 5:29.
11.
A great truth revealed. Acts 10:19-
21, 34, 35.
IV. Consecrated Ministry
12.
Delivered from execution. Acts 12:
5-11.
13.
A legacy to the church. 1 Peter 1:1;
2 Peter 1:1, 2.
14.
The ladder of Christian perfection.
2 Peter 1:4-10.
15.
"Feed the flock." 1 Peter 5:1-4.
Key Thoughts
As -a young disciple, Peter was a man of
ardent zeal and affection for his Master;
yet he was possessed of a hasty, impetuous
[ 20 ]
temper and was of ttimes rash and boastful.
His tragic fall at the time of Christ's trial,
followed by his repentance and subsequent
restoration, appears as the turning point in
his life and character. Henceforth, and with
but one exception (Galatians 2:11-13), he
stands before us as a noble apostle with
dignity, courage, prudence, and firmness of
purpose.
"There is no limit to the usefulness of one
who, by putting self aside, makes room for
the working of the Holy Spirit upon his
heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to
God."—The Desire of Ages,
pages 250, 251.
THE LESSON
Introduction: An Undershepherd
The life story of Peter is better known
than that of any of the other eleven disciples
of our Lord. The numerous recorded inci-
dents in the Gospels and in the early chap-
ters of the book of Acts reveal a dynamic
character that was in his later life fully
surrendered to the service of God. When'
Peter was reinstated and recommissioned in
his apostleship, Christ gave the charge, "Feed
My lambs," "Feed My sheep," and "when
thou art converted, strengthen thy breth-
ren." Peter's long, consecrated ministry as
an undershepherd, together with the virtuous
counsel and warnings contained in his
epistles, indicates a genuine fulfillment of the
divine purpose.
Early Discipleship
1.
Under what circumstances was
Peter led to accept Jesus as the Mes-
siah? John 1:40-42.
NoTE.—"The eye of Christ rested upon
him, reading his character and his life
history. His impulsive nature, his loving,
sympathetic heart, his ambition and self-
confidence, the history of his fall, his re-
pentance, his labors, and his martyr death,
—the Saviour read it all, and He said, 'Thou
are Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be
called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A
stone.'
"—The Desire of Ages,
page 139.
2.
Relate the chain of events that
induced Peter and his fishermen
friends to forsake all and follow
Christ. Luke 5:1-11.
NOTE.—"Peter exclaimed, 'Depart from
me; for I am a sinful man;' yet he clung to
the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not
be parted from Him. . . . It was after
Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and
his own unworthiness that he was entrusted
with the divine message. It was after Peter
had been led to self-renunciation and de-
pendence upon divine power that he re-
ceived the call to his work for Christ."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 246.
3.
What thrilling experience on the
storm-tossed Galilee is recorded of
Peter? Matt. 14:22-33.
NoTE.—"Looking unto Jesus, Peter walks
securely; but as in self-satisfaction he glances
back toward his companions in the boat,
his eyes are turned from the Saviour.. . .
But while the billows talk with death, Peter
lifts his eyes from the angry waters, and
fixing them upon Jesus, cries, 'Lord, save
me.' Immediately Jesus grasps the out-
stretched hand, saying, '0 thou of little
faith, wherefore didst thou doubt ?'
"—The
Desire of Ages,
page 381.
A Rolling Stone
4.
In response to the question,
"Whom say ye that I am?" what was
Peter's notable confession? What
statement did Christ then make? Matt.
16:13-18.
NoTE.—"The truth which Peter had con-
fessed is the foundation of the believer's
faith. . . . The word Peter signifies a stone,
—a rolling stone. Peter was not the rock
upon which the church was founded. The
gates of hell did prevail against him when
he denied his Lord with cursing and swear-
ing. The church was built upon One against
[21]
PETER USED THE FIRST SPIRITUAL.
RADAR BEAM. HE KEPT
.415
EYES
FIXED UPON JESUS.
4058-e
whom the gates of hell could not prevail."
—The Desire of Ages,
pages 412, 413.
5.
On the eve of Christ's crucifixion,
what self-confident boast did Peter
make? How did he later display his
bravery? Mark 14:27-31; John 18:
10, 11.
NOTE.—"Christ's solemn warning was a
call to heart searching. Peter needed to dis-
trust himself, and to have a deeper faith in
Christ."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 673.
6.
At the trial of Christ, what utter
downfall did Peter sustain? How did
he show his feelings of shame and re-
morse? Luke 22:54-62.
7.
What marvelous word of cheer
did the risen Christ send to His down-
cast disciple? Mark 16:6, 7.
NOTE.—"And Peter." What a volume of
tender love, compassion, and divine under-
standing in those words! Mary had just
come from the empty tomb with the great-
est message ever heard,—"He is risen," and
the only name mentioned was that of the
poor man who had "followed Him afar off,"
who had fallen into bad company, who had
faithlessly denied his Lord, and who felt he
was no longer a disciple, and no longer in
fellowship or communion with Christ, or
heaven. Yes, wondrous mercy and forgive-
ness to him who had forfeited his sacred
trust!
8.
Tell of Christ's last visit by the
sea and the reinstatement of the hum-
bled, contrite Peter. John 21:1-17.
NOTE.—"Three times Peter had openly
denied his Lord, and three times Jesus drew
from him the assurance of his love and
loyalty, pressing home that pointed question,
like a barbed arrow to his wounded heart."
—The Desire of Ages,
page 812.
The Transformed Peter
9.
A few weeks later, what was the
new and Spirit-filled Peter enabled to
do? Acts 2:14-16, 37-41.
Nora.—"He [Peter] was no longer proud
and boastful, but modest and self-distrust-
ful. He was filled with the Holy Spirit, and
by the help of this power he was resolved to
remove the stain of his apostasy by honoring
the name he had once disowned."—The
Acts
of the Apostles,
page 63.
10.
When Peter and his associates
were persecuted and imprisoned, what
fearless testimony did they bear? Acts
4:19, 20; 5:29.
NoTE.—"This courageous defense appalled
the Jewish leaders. They had supposed that
the disciples would be overcome with fear
and confusion when brought before the
Sanhedrin. But instead, these witnesses
spoke as Christ had spoken,
with a con-
vincing power that silenced their adver-
saries."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages
63, 64.
11.
Upon what important mission
was Peter once sent, and what great
truth was revealed to him? Acts 10:
19-21, 34, 35.
[ 22 ]
Nom.—In this experience Peter perceived
that the age-long prejudices and exclusive-
ness of the Jews was utterly contrary to the
spirit of Christ; and as these were gradually
broken down, the way was opened for the
gospel to be proclaimed to the Gentile world.
Consecrated Ministry
12.
When condemned to die for his
faith, what miraculous deliverance
was granted to Peter? Acts 12:5-11.
13.
In the later years of Peter's
ministry, what inspired messages did
he bequeath to the believers? 1 Peter
1:1; 2 Peter 1:1, 2.
Nom.—"As time went on, the apostle's
influence as an educator and leader in-
creased; and while he never lost his bur-
den to labor especially for the Jews, yet he
bore his testimony in many lands, and
strengthened the faith of multitudes in the
gospel."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page
517.
His letters also "bear the impress of hav-
ing been written by one . . . whose entire
being had been transformed by grace, and
whose hope of eternal life was sure and
steadfast."—Ibid.
14.
What divine outline of Chris-
tian growth and development of char-
acter did Peter present? 2 Peter 1:
4-10.
15.
As a faithful undershepherd,
what counsel did Peter give to other
shepherds? 1 Peter 5:1-4.
Nom.—Christ's "high commission" to
Peter to feed the lambs and the sheep he
now passes on to his younger associates in
Christian service.
Coming at length to the close of his long
and devoted ministry, "he now counted it a
joy to yield up his life for the gospel," while
"as a last favor, he entreated his execu-
tioners that he might be nailed to the cross
with his head downward. The request was
granted, and in this manner died the great
apostle Peter."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages 537, 538.
Lesson 7, for November 15, 1958
Judas, the Betrayer
MEMORY VERSE: "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man
soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.
STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 293-295, 653-655, 716-722; "The
Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson
Help in "Review and Herald" for October 30.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Wednesday: Questions 11-14.
❑
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1, 2.
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
❑
Monday: Questions 3-6.
❑
Friday: Review entire lesson.
❑
Tuesday: Questions 7-10.
❑
[
23
]
Lesson Outline
Introduction: The Character of Judas
Revealed
I. One of the Twelve
1.
His first contact with Christ. Luke
9:57, 58.
2.
Numbered with the disciples. Matt.
10:1-4; Mark 3:14-19; Luke 6:
13-16.
II. Disappointed and Critical
3.
A startling disclosure. John 6:70, 71.
4.
Unholy ambition. Mark 9:33, 34.
5.
Denouncing Mary's gift. John 12:
4-6.
6.
Christ's gentle rebuke. John 12:7, 8.
Ill. Approaching the Crisis
7.
At the Passover feast. John 13:18,
19, 21.
8.
The betrayer identified. John 13:
23-26.
9.
Judas leaves the supper table. John
13:27-30.
10.
Selling his Lord. Matt. 26:14-16.
IV. Betrayal and Its Consequences
11.
The traitor's kiss. Mark 14:43-46;
Luke 22:47-51.
12.
His remorse and death. Matt. 27:3-5.
13.
Christ's verdict. Matt. 26:24; John
17:12.
14.
The vacancy filled. Ps. 109:8; Acts
1:15-20, 26.
Key Thought
"God takes men as they are, with the
human elements in their character, and trains
them for His service, if they will be disci-
plined and learn of Him. They are not
chosen because they are perfect, but not-
withstanding their imperfections, that
through the knowledge and practice of the
truth, through the grace of Christ, they may
become transformed into His image."-The
Desire of Ages,
page 294.
THE LESSON
Introduction: The Character of
Judas Revealed
"The history of Judas presents the sad
ending of a life that might have been
honored of God. Had Judas died before his
last journey to Jerusalem he would have
been regarded as a man worthy of a place
among the Twelve, and one who would be
greatly missed. The abhorrence which has
followed him through the centuries would
not have existed but for the attributes
re-
vealed
at the close of his history. But it was
for a purpose that his character was laid
open to the world. It was to be a warning
to all who', like him, should betray sacred
trusts."-The
Desire of Ages,
page 716.
One of the Twelve
1. What facts of Judas's first con-
tact with the Master are recorded by
Luke? Luke 9:57, 58.
NOTE.
-"While
Jesus was preparing the
disciples for their ordination, one who had
not been summoned urged his presence
among them. It was Judas Iscariot, a man
who professed to be a follower of Christ. He
now came forward, soliciting a place in this
inner circle of disciples. With great earnest-
ness and apparent sincerity he declared,
`Master, I will follow Thee whithersoever
Thou goest.' Jesus neither repulsed nor
welcomed him, but uttered only the mourn-
ful words: 'The foxes have holes, and the
birds of the air have nests; but the Son of
man hath not where to lay His head.' Matt.
8:19, 20. Judas believed Jesus to be the
Messiah; and by joining the apostles, he
hoped to secure a high position in the new
kingdom. This hope Jesus designed to cut
off by the statement of His poverty.
"The disciples were anxious that Judas
should become one of their number. He was
of commanding appearance, a man of keen
discernment and executive ability, and they
commended him to Jesus as one who would
greatly assist Him in His work. They were
surprised that Jesus received him so coolly.
. . . If He had repulsed Judas, they would,
in their own minds, have questioned the
wisdom of their Master."-The
Desire of
Ages,
pages 293, 294.
[ 24 ]
WHAT IS 3AINED BY FOLLOWING CHRIST—
PRESTIGE AND GLORY, OR
4058-7
seavice AND SACRIFICE?
2.
In each of the three lists of the
twelve disciples whom Christ or-
dained, where does the name of Judas
appear? Matt. 10:1-4; Mark 3:14-19;
Luke 6:13-16.
NOTE.—"Judas had the same opportuni-
ties as had the other disciples.... When he
came into association with Jesus, he had
some precious traits of character that might
have been made a blessing to the church. If
he had been willing to wear the yoke of
Christ, he might have been among the chief
of the apostles; but he hardened his heart
when his defects were pointed out, and in
pride and rebellion chose his own selfish
ambitions, and thus unfitted himself for
the work that God would have given him
to
do."—The Desire of Ages,
pages 294,
295.
Disappointed and Critical
3.
Following Christ's sermon on the
Bread of Life and the frustrated hopes
of many, what startling disclosure did
Christ make to His disciples? John 6:
70, 71.
NOTE.—When John the Baptist had been
allowed to die in prison, Judas was much
displeased. Again, "Judas was first to take
advantage of the enthusiasm excited by the
miracle of the loaves. It was he who set on
foot the project to take Christ by force and
make Him king. His hopes were high. His
disappointment was bitter.
"Christ's discourse in the synagogue con-
cerning the Bread of Life was the turning
point in the history of Judas."--The
Desire
of Ages,
pages 718, 719.
4.
What was a subject of dispute
among the disciples? Mark 9:3i, 34.
N0TE.—"From that time he expressed
doubts that confused the disciples. . . . His
suggestions were constantly exciting an am-
bitious desire for temporal preferment, and
thus turning the disciples from the important
things they should have considered. The
dissension as to which of them should be
greatest was generally excited by Judas."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 719.
5.
At the supper in Bethany, when
Mary anointed the feet of Jesus, what
criticism did Judas offer? In saying
this, what was his real motive? John
12:4-6.
NOTE.—"Judas had a high opinion of his
own executive ability. As a financier he
thought himself greatly superior to his fel-
low disciples, and he had led them to re-
gard him in the same light. He had gained
their confidence, and had a strong influence
over them. His professed sympathy for the
poor deceived them, and his artful insinua-
tion caused them to look distrustfully upon
Mary's devotion."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 559, 560.
6.
In defense of Mary's sacrificial
act, what statement did Christ make?
John 12:7, 8.
Approaching the Crisis
7.
At the Passover supper, what
alarming announcement did Christ
make? John 13:18; 19, 21.
NoTE.—What human heart can be un-
touched by the attitude of Christ toward
Judas! Throughout His ministry Christ
[ 25 ]
knew the character of the betrayer, yet did
not expose him. He yearned to save him;
and "when the Saviour's hands were bath-
ing those soiled feet, and wiping them with
the towel, the heart of Judas thrilled through
and through with the impulse then and there
to confess his sin. But he would not humble
himself. . . . Judas was satisfied that there
was nothing to be gained by following
Christ
;
After seeing Him degrade Himself,
as he thought, he was confirmed in his pur-
pose to disown Him, and confess himself
deceived."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 645.
8.
By what means was the identity
of the traitor at length revealed? John
13:23-26.
9.
What further remark did Jesus
make, and how did Judas respond?
John 13:27-30.
NOTE.—"In surprise and confusion at the
exposure of his purpose, Judas rose hastily
to leave the room. . . . Night it was to the
traitor as he turned away from Christ into
the outer darkness. Until this step was
taken, Judas had not passed beyond the
possibility of repentance. But when he left
the presence of his Lord and his fellow dis-
ciples, the final decision had been made. He
had passed the boundary line."—The
Desire
of Ages,
pages 654, 655.
10.
What secret negotiations was
Judas then making with the chief
priests? Matt. 26:14-16.
NOTE.—"Before the Passover Judas had
met a second time with the priests and
scribes, and had closed the contract to de-
liver Jesus into their hands. Yet he after-
ward mingled with the disciples as though
innocent of any wrong." "Although sur-
prised and alarmed at the discovery of his
guilt, Judas became only the more de-
termined. From the sacramental supper he
went out to complete the work of betrayal."
—The Desire of Ages,
pages 645, 655.
In accord with the prophecy of Zechariah
11:12, Judas sold his Master for thirty
pieces of silver—the price of a slave.
Betrayal and Its Consequences
11.
What was Judas's part at the
arrest of Jesus? Mark 14:43-46; Luke
22:47-51.
NorE.—When Christ said to Judas,
" 'Friend, . . . betrayest thou the Son of
man with a kiss?' this appeal should have
aroused the conscience of the betrayer, and
touched his stubborn heart; but honor, fidel-
ity, and human tenderness had forsaken
him. He stood bold and defiant, showing
no disposition to relent. He had given him-
self up to Satan, and he had no power to
resist him. Jesus did not refuse the traitor's
kiss."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 696.
12.
When Judas realized that Jesus
would not exercise His divine power
to deliver Himself from the authori-
ties, what did he do? Matt. 27:3-5.
Norc.—"Judas did not, however, believe
that Christ would permit Himself to be
arrested. . . . Anxiously he followed Him
from the garden to the trial before the Jew-
ish rulers. At every movement he looked
for Him to surprise His enemies, by appear-
ing before them as the Son of God, and
setting at nought all their plots and power.
But as hour after hour went by, and Jesus
submitted to all the abuse heaped upon Him,
a terrible fear came to the traitor that he
had sold his Master to His death.... Rush-
ing to the throne of judgement, he threw
down before the high priest the pieces of
silver that had been the price of his Lord's
betrayal."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 720-
722. But it was too late. His last desperate
efforts to halt the proceedings failed, and
in agonizing remorse he hastened out to take
his own life.
13.
What was Christ's verdict con-
cerning the betrayer? Matt. 26:24;
John 17:12.
NOTE.—"In striking contrast to the sanc-
tification worked out in the life of John is
[
26]
ment," or "the son of prophecy." The con-
version and generous gift of this Levite was
truly a great inspiration and encouragement
to the early church.
2.
Upon Saul's first visit to Jeru-
salem, following his conversion, who
befriended him and commended him
to the apostles? Acts 9:26-28.
NOTE.—"It was difficult for them [the
church members] to believe that so bigoted
a Pharisee, and one who had done so much
to destroy the church, could become a sin-
cere follower of Jesus."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
page 129.
3.
When the leaders of the church
at Jerusalem received tidings of many
conversions at Antioch, what did they
do? Acts 11:19-22.
4.
What qualities did Barnabas
possess, and what were the results of
his efforts? Acts 11:23, 24.
NoTE.—"The labors of Barnabas in An-
tioch were richly blessed, and many were
added to the number of believers there."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 156.
A Colaborer With Saul
5.
What special mission did Barna-
bas undertake? How did the work of
the Lord prosper at Antioch? Acts 11:
25, 26.
NOTE.—"As the work developed, Barna-
bas felt the need of suitable help, in order
to advance in the opening providences of
God; and he went to Tarsus to seek for
Paul, who, after his departure from Jeru-
salem some time before, had been laboring
in 'the regions of Syria and Cilicia,' pro-
claiming 'the faith which once he destroyed.'
Barnabas was successful in finding Paul,
and in persuading him to return with him
as a companion in ministry."—The
Acts of
the Apostles,
page 156.
6.
Where and under what circum-,
stances was Barnabas ordained to the
gospel ministry? Upon what pioneer
missionary journey did he and Saul
then set forth? Acts 13:1-4.
NOTE.—On this itinerary Barnabas and
Saul (later known as Paul) visited Cyprus
and numerous cities of Asia Minor, in a
number of which they established churches.
Following the healing of a cripple at Lystra,
the people declared, " 'The gods are come
down to us in the likeness of men.' This
statement was in harmony with a tradition
of theirs that the gods occasionally visited
the earth. Barnabas they called Jupiter,
the father of gods, because of his venerable
appearance, his dignified bearing, and the
mildness and benevolence expressed in his
countenance."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 181.
7.
After completing this mission and
reporting to the churches of Antioch
and Jerusalem, what did Paul and
Barnabas plan to do? What contro-
versy arose and with what result? Acts
15:36-41.
NoTE.—"Both Paul and Barnabas had a
tender regard for those who had recently ac-
cepted the gospel message under their min-
istry, and they longed to see them once
more." Thereupon arose the controversy
regarding John Mark, and "so sharp was
the contention, that Paul and Barnabas
separated, the latter following out his con-
victions, and taking Mark with
him."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages 201, 202. Con-
cerning the further labors of this conse-
crated apostle there is no record in Scripture.
Regarding also the so-called "Epistle of
Barnabas," it is evident that the real Barna-
bas of the book of Acts is not its author,
for that epistle is unquestionably spurious.
A Youthful Companion
8.
At what time was Timothy con-
verted to Christianity? What is re-
corded of his father, mother, and
grandmother? Acts 16:1; 2 Tim. 1:5.
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shipwrecked upon the ocean, drifting, hour
after hour, battling with the waves; beset
by bandits in the wilderness, betrayed by
false brethren in the house of professed
friends, or singing at midnight in a Roman
dungeon. What a life of peril and adventure
for Christ! And all this though frail of body
and suffering from ill-health !
"Clad in the whole armor of God, this
hero of the cross pressed forward in the
conflict. His voice of cheer proclaimed him
triumphant in the combat. Fixing his gaze
on the reward of the faithful, he exclaimed
in tones of victory, 'Our light affliction,
which is but for a moment, worketh for us
a far more exceeding and eternal weight of
glory"
'-The Acts of the Apostles,
page
332.
Lesson 13, for December 27, 1958
Paul: A Prisoner anti Martyr
MEMORY VERSE:
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have
kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness,
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day: and not to
me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing." 2 Tim.
4:7, 8.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 389-513; "The Seventh-day Ad-
ventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review
and Herald" for December 11.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
❑
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
❑
Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-4.
❑
Thursday: Read from Study Helps.
❑
Monday: Questions 5-8.
❑
Friday: Review entire lesson.
❑
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
❑
Lesson Outline
8. Cheered
along
the
Appian
Way.
Acts 28: 12-15.
Introduction: A Valued Legacy to the
-
Church
I. Imprisonment in Palestine
1.
The tumult in the temple. Acts 21
27-33.
2.
Gracious assurance. Acts 23:10, 11
3.
Escape from conspiracy. Acts 23
12, 31-33.
4.
Witnessing before Felix. Acts 24
24, 25.
5.
Defense before Agrippa. Acts 26
26-29.
III. Prison Life in Rome
9.
Meeting with prominent Jews. Acts
28:17, 23.
10.
Preaching the gospel. Acts 28:30, 31.
11.
Trophies from the imperial house-
hold. Phil. 1:12, 13; 4:21, 22.
IV. Closing Events in Paul's Life
12.
The second arrest. 2 Tim. 4:16, 17.
13.
Personal requests. 2 Tim. 4:9, 11, 13.
14.
His triumphant testimony. 2 Tim.
4:6-8.
II. En Route to Rome
6.
The hazardous voyage. Acts
1-44.
7.
Shipwrecked on Melita. Acts
1-10.
•
Key Thought
27:
Of all the men who have advanced the
interests of Christianity, Paul stands forth
28:
as the most prominent. This grand old mis-
sionary appears as a matchless example of
[44]
En Route to Rome
6.
Describe the hazardous voyage to
Italy. Acts 27:1-44.
7.
On the island of Melita (Malta),
what miracles occurred? Acts 28:1-10.
NoTE.—"During the three months that the
ship's company remained at Melita, Paul
and his fellow laborers improved many op-
portunities to preach the gospel. In a re-
markable manner the Lord wrought through
them. For Paul's sake, the entire ship-
wrecked company were treated with great
kindness."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page
446.
8.
As Paul continued his journey
toward Rome, how was he cheered
along the way? Acts 28:12-15.
NOTE.—"Few realize the significance of
those words of Luke, that when Paul saw
his brethren, 'he thanked God, and took
courage.' In the midst of the weeping, sym-
pathizing company of believers, who were
not ashamed of his bonds, the apostle
praised God aloud. The cloud of sadness
that had rested upon his spirit was
swept
away."—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 449.
Prison Life in Rome
9.
Upon his arrival at the capital,
whom did Paul call together, and what
opportunity was afforded him? Acts
28:17, 23.
NOTE.—"To these, first of all, Paul de-
termined to present the facts concerning
himself and his work, before his enemies
should have opportunity to embitter them
against
him."—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 450.
10.
How long did the apostle re-
main a prisoner, and what measure of
freedom did he enjoy? Acts 28:30, 31.
PAUL SAW BEYOND THE ROMAN CHAINS
TO THE CROWN OP ETERNAL LIFE .
,e5..
.
NoTE.—During the time of his confine-
ment in Rome, Paul wrote the epistles to the
Ephesians, the Philippians, the Colossians,
to Philemon, the second epistle to Timothy,
and evidently the book of Hebrews. See
Hebrews 13:24.
11.
As a result of his teaching, who
were numbered among Paul's con-
verts? Phil. 1:12, 13; 4:21, 22.
NoTE.—"Even in Nero's household, tro-
phies of the cross were won. From the vile
attendants of a viler king were gained con-
verts who became sons of God. These were
not Christians secretly, but openly. They
were not ashamed of their faith."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 463.
"At Paul's examination the charges against
him were not sustained; and contrary to
the general expectation, and with a regard
for justice wholly at variance with his char-
acter, Nero declared the prisoner guiltless.
Paul's bonds were removed; he was again a
free man. . . . This last interval of freedom
he diligently improved in laboring among
the churches."—Ibid., pp. 486, 487.
Closing Events in Paul's Life
12.
How did Paul express his lack
of human support when he was ar-
rested and taken to Rome the second
time? 2 Tim. 4:16, 17. ,
1461
13.
What last personal request did
Paul make to Timothy? 2 Tim. 4:9,
11, 13.
NoTE.-Whether or not Timothy arrived
before the time of execution, is not known.
14.
As he faced the hour of martyr-
dom, what triumphant testimony did
Paul bear? 2 Tim. 4:6-8.
NOTE.
-"As the sword of the executioner
descends, and the shadows of death gather
about the martyr, his latest thought springs
forward, as will his earliest in the great
awakening, to meet the Life-giver, who
shall welcome him to the joy of the blest.
"Well-nigh a score of centuries have
passed since Paul the Aged poured out his
blood as a witness for the word of God and
the testimony of Jesus Christ. No faithful
hand recorded for the generations to come
the last scenes in the life of this holy man;
but Inspiration has preserved for us his
dying testimony. Like a trumpet peal his
voice has rung out through all the ages since,
nerving with his own courage thousands of
witnesses for Christ, and wakening in thou-
sands of sorrow-stricken hearts the echo of
his own triumphant
joy."-The Acts of the
Apostles,
page 513.
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
December 27, 1958
The overflow this quarter goes to the Inca Union in the South American
Division. The projects to benefit are as follows:
1.
The construction of a chapel for the Inca Union Junior College at
Lima, Peru. This will provide a meeting place for the student chapel hours
and a place for church services of the school.
2.
The building of an administration and classroom edifice for the Bolivia
Training School at Cochabamba, Bolivia. At the present time teachers are
obliged to hold their classes in dormitory rooms, and the administration
offices are crowded in a room in the kitchen-dining-room building.
3.
The completion of the classroom and administration building of the
Lake Titicaca Training School at Juliaca, Peru.
4.
The building of a medical-missionary institution at Cochabamba,
Bolivia.
May our Sabbath school members everywhere rally to this call for help
in the training of young people to carry the message in South America.
LESSONS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1959
Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior
Lesson Quarterly
for
the first quarter of 1959 will be helped by the following outline in studying, the first.
lesson. The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Studies in the Epistle to the Romans."
The title of the first lesson is "God's Righteousness in Judging Sin." The Memory Verse
is Romans 1:16. The texts to be studied are:
Ques. 1. Rom. 1:1.
Ques. 8. Rom. 1:17.
Ques. 2. Rom. 1:2.
Ques. 9. Rom. 1:18.
Ques. 3. Rom. 1:3, 4.
Ques. 10. Rom. 1:19, 20.
Ques. 4. Rom. 1:5, 6.
Ques. 11. Rom. 1:21, 22.
Ques. 5. Rom. 1:7-10.
Ques. 12. Rorri., 1:23-25.
Ques. 6. Rom. 1:11-15.
Ques. 13. Rom. 1:26-28.
Ques. 7. Rom. 1:16.
Ques. 14. Rom. 1:29-32.
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